Let's reach 250 Power Stones for an extra chapter
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As we walk toward the Parker residence, the houses become smaller and the lawns less manicured. It's a far cry from the wealthy neighborhoods in uptown Manhattan, but there is a certain charm to it. The houses are close together, and the sound of kids playing in the streets fills the air. It feels like a real neighborhood, a place where people know each other and look out for each other.
Peter's house is small, but well-maintained. The paint is a bit faded, and the garden is a little overgrown, but it's clear that someone takes pride in it. It's the kind of house that radiates warmth, a place where you can feel loved and safe.
As we approach the front door, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. This is the house where Peter grew up, the place that shaped him into the hero he is destined to become. It's a simple house, but it holds so much significance.
Peter unlocks the door, and we step inside. "Aunt May? Uncle Ben? We're home!" he calls out.
The house is cozy and slightly cluttered, with family photos and knick-knacks scattered around the living room. The furniture is old but comfortable, and the air smells of home-cooked food. It's a lived-in space, a place where memories are made.
Aunt May emerges from the kitchen, her face lighting up when she sees us. She's a warm, nurturing woman, with a concerned expression that hints at a lifetime of worry. She's dressed practically, in a simple dress and apron, ready to tackle any household task.
"Peter, darling! You're home!" she exclaims, rushing over to hug him. "And Ethan, Gwen! It's so good to see you both."
Uncle Ben follows behind her, his weathered face creasing into a kind smile. He's a strong but gentle presence, his work clothes hinting at a blue-collar job. He exudes an aura of quiet strength and integrity.
"Well, look who it is! Ethan, Gwen, always a pleasure," Uncle Ben says, extending a hand to shake mine. His grip is firm, but his eyes are warm and welcoming.
They look exactly as I imagined them. Aunt May, a constant worrier, but with a heart of gold. Uncle Ben, a pillar of strength and wisdom. It's easy to see why Peter loves them so much.
The Parkers treat Gwen and me like family, fussing over us and asking about our lives. They're genuinely interested in our well-being, and their warmth is infectious.
"How's school going, Ethan?" Aunt May asks, her eyes filled with concern. "Are you keeping out of trouble?"
I chuckle, "Trying my best, Aunt May. It's hard with Peter around."
Peter playfully shoves me. "Hey! I'm not the one who gets into trouble."
As we chat, I can't help but notice the subtle signs of financial strain. Unpaid bills are stacked on the coffee table, and the furniture is worn and patched. They're clearly struggling to make ends meet, but they never complain.
Damn. I knew they were tight on money, but it's worse than I thought. I impulsively open my mouth to offer help, "Aunt May, Uncle Ben, I know things have been tough lately. If you need anything, anything at all, just let me know. I'm happy to help."
The words are out before I can stop them, and I immediately regret it. I don't want to insult them or make them feel like they're accepting charity.
Aunt May's eyes soften, and she reaches out to take my hand. "Oh, Ethan, that's so sweet of you, dear. But we're managing. We always do."
Uncle Ben nods in agreement. "We appreciate the offer, son, but we can't take your money. We'll figure things out."
Stubborn, just like I thought. I can see it in their eyes; they're proud people. They don't want to burden anyone, even if they're struggling.
"But really," I insist, "I have more than enough. I want to help."
"We know you do, Ethan," Aunt May says gently. "But we wouldn't feel right taking it. We're grateful for your goodwill, that's more than enough."
I can't just sit here and watch them struggle. There has to be something I can do. An idea sparks in my mind, and I grin.
"Well, since you guys are so stubborn about taking money," I say, earning a chuckle from Uncle Ben, "How about a gift then?"
Peter and Gwen exchange confused glances. "A gift?" Peter asks.
"Yeah," I say, trying to sound casual. "I've been doing pretty well lately. Remember how I was complaining about being broke all the time?"
Gwen laughs, "How could we forget?"
"Well, things have changed," I continue, "I made some smart investments. I'm not exactly rich, but I'm doing okay."
Aunt May and Uncle Ben exchange surprised glances. "That's wonderful, Ethan!" Aunt May exclaims.
"So, I wanted to get you guys something," I say, reaching into my pocket. I summon two Guardian Amulets from the System shop. They look like simple necklaces, each with a small, unassuming charm. Each of these charms are capable of protecting the wearer from any lethal attacks, capable of stopping bullets or even a rocket launcher.
"I know it's not much, but I thought you might like these."
I hand one to Aunt May and the other to Uncle Ben. "They're just little trinkets, but I thought they were kind of cool."
"Oh, Ethan, they're lovely!" Aunt May says, admiring the charm. "Thank you, dear."
"We appreciate it, Ethan," Uncle Ben says, putting on the necklace.
"Just, you know," I say, trying to sound nonchalant, "with all those monster sightings lately, I wouldn't want you guys going out at night without some protection."
Aunt May shivers. "Oh, those creatures are just awful! I hope they catch them soon."
Uncle Ben nods. "We'll be careful, Ethan. Thank you for thinking of us."
They bought it. They actually bought it. Maybe these amulets will keep them safe.
With the tension eased, Aunt May insists on making us dinner. We move into the dining room, where a home-cooked meal awaits. The aroma of roasted chicken and mashed potatoes fills the air, and a sense of warmth and normalcy returns to the room.
As we eat, Peter is quieter than usual. I can sense that he is wrestling with something.
I lean over to Peter, nudging him slightly. "Hey, what's up? You've been awfully quiet."
He shrugs, avoiding my gaze. "Nothing, Ethan, just tired."
I raise an eyebrow, unconvinced. "Come on, man, you can tell me. Something's bugging you, right?"
He forces a smile, but it doesn't reach his eyes. "Really, I'm fine."
Yeah, right. That's totally believable. I can't shake the feeling that something is wrong. He only got his spider powers recently. I really hope he doesn't do something reckless.
***
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